About
Hello! I’m Hilary Tillin – the name behind Jocale Design. I am an Artisan Jewellery Designer specialising in Sterling Silver Jewellery. Whilst British born, I now live and work in Stanthorpe, Queensland, Australia.
Entering my studio, I step into my own private world. Through the windows is a rural landscape scattered with enormous granite boulders. Inside, a sturdy wooden jeweller’s workbench sits centre stage, playing host to a plethora of tools — tiny saws, files, hammers, and a soldering torch to name just a few.
Using traditional metal smithing skills, I cut, file, form, texture and solder sheet metal, transforming it into necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and rings.
When not in the studio, I travel. Occasionally, I come across a place that speaks to me. I feel the need to look closer, or perhaps just be present. These places are often unexpected & peaceful, with rocky landscapes a defining part of their character. They become the inspiration for my designs.
I enjoy the challenge of interpreting this inspiration – abstracting forms, lines or other elements – to develop jewellery designs. Followed by resolving the practicalities of bringing my ideas to life.
The resulting jewellery is unique, featuring textural details and organic silver elements, often with a soft satin finish. It is designed to be worn, enjoyed and treasured.
Education & Training
2010 Lampwork Bead Making with Julie Fountain, Malvern, UK
2015 Introduction to Silversmithing, Brisbane Institute of Art, Brisbane, Australia
2016 Beginners Silversmithing Course, The Goldsmiths School, Brisbane, Australia
2017 – 2018 Silversmithing Construction Course, The Goldsmiths School, Brisbane, Australia
2019 Silversmithing Vocational Certificate, The Goldsmiths School, Brisbane, Australia
2023 Essence of Identity – Masterclass with Donna Watson, Fibre Arts Take Two, Australia
2024 Sensing Place – A Material Response with Debbie Lyddon, Fibre Arts Take Two, Australia
2025 Beyond Technique – Masterclass with Claire Benn, Take Two Art, Australia
Exhibition History
2015 Metcalfe Gallery, Brisbane Institute of Art, Brisbane, Australia
2016 RAW natural born artists Showcase, Brisbane, Australia
2016 The Goldsmith School Exhibition, Brisbane, Australia
2017 Etsy Made Local Exhibition, Brisbane, Australia
2019 The Goldsmiths School Exhibition, Brisbane, Australia
2022 Stanthorpe Regional Art Gallery Christmas Art Fair, Stanthorpe, Australia
2023 Granite Belt Art Trail, Stanthorpe, Australia
2025 RME Downlands Exhibition, Toowoomba, Australia
2025 Granite Belt Art Trail, Stanthorpe, Australia
2026 Stanthorpe Regional Art Gallery, Local Art Prize, Stanthorpe, Australia
Awards & Recognition
2019 Vocational Course Certificate of Achievement, The Goldsmiths School, Brisbane, Australia
2019 Excellence Award, The Goldsmiths School, Brisbane, Australia
2024 Stanthorpe Art Prize Finalist, Stanthorpe, Australia
2026 Second Place, Applied Arts, Stanthorpe Local Art Prize
Press & Publications
Stiration Bead Wavy Necklace, Soda Lime Times, 2016
Hilary Tillin in Her Studio, Creative Beading Magazine, 2013
UK Glass Bead Making Journal, 2010
Memberships
Borderline Regional Arts Association
The Jewellers and Metalsmiths Group of Australia, Queensland Chapter
Welcome to my website – Come on in and take a look at my work.
If you would like to know more please get in touch – I would love to hear from you.